Boris Forced To Defend TFL Over Oxford Circus Chaos

4 December 2015, 11:19 | Updated: 25 August 2016, 16:16

Boris Johnson has been forced to defend TFL after data revealed that Oxford Circus station was closed due to overcrowding on one of every three days last year.

The London Mayor told LBC's Nick Ferrari that this just underscored the severe need for Crossrail to alleviate overcrowding in the area.

"This just isn't good enough Mr Mayor is it," asked Nick?

"Oxford Circus is in line, as you know,for a huge improvement and don't forget that is one of the reasons why Crossrail is so vital that central line that whole network will be radically relieved by Crossrail when it comes in in a couple of years time," he responded.

"That shows the vital importance of continuing to invest in our tube and our transport infrastructure," he said.

TFL blamed work on nearby stations for the incerase in overcrowding. 

Steve Griffiths, CEO of London Underground, said: " Oxford Circus is one of our busiest stations with nearly 100 million people passing through it each year. The safety of our customers is our top priority, which is why staff sometimes have to close it for short periods in order to avoid overcrowding on the platforms.

“We are working hard to reduce pressure on the station, and on Monday Central line trains will stop again at Tottenham Court Road, helping to ease congestion. Major upgrade work is ‎well underway at Tottenham Court Road and Bond Street stations, which will significantly increase capacity for the whole area."